Bei Jing Shang Bao·2025-10-30 00:34Core Viewpoint - The ongoing "return to the nest" reform of village banks, led by main initiating banks, aims to address risks and optimize the financial layout in rural areas, ensuring that financial services remain rooted in local communities and meet the needs of rural residents [1][7][11]. Summary by Sections Village Bank Mergers and Acquisitions - On October 29, three village banks in Shandong were approved for dissolution, with their assets and operations taken over by Qingdao Rural Commercial Bank, marking a significant step in the "village to branch" reform [1][2]. - The day before, six village banks in Sichuan were also absorbed by Chengdu Rural Commercial Bank, indicating a broader trend of consolidation in the sector [2][3]. Background and Rationale - Village banks were established to serve "three rural issues," small and micro enterprises, and county-level economies, filling gaps left by traditional financial institutions. However, many have strayed from their original mission due to weak capital, governance issues, and inadequate risk control [7][11]. - The "village to branch" reform involves the absorption of village banks into their main initiating banks, eliminating their independent legal status and allowing for unified management and operations [7][11]. Strategic Implications - The main initiating banks can leverage their risk management frameworks and capital allocation mechanisms to reduce potential risks associated with village banks, enhancing their overall risk resilience [4][10]. - The consolidation allows main banks to deepen their penetration into rural financial markets by utilizing existing customer bases and branch networks of the absorbed village banks [4][10]. Future Outlook - The reform is expected to continue, with more village banks likely to be integrated into main initiating bank systems, as highlighted by recent regulatory approvals and ongoing discussions in the financial sector [11][12]. - The central government's emphasis on rural financial reform and the need for differentiated strategies for different institutions will be crucial for the success of these reforms [11][12].